Can hybrid vehicles get blue license plates?
2 Answers
Hybrid vehicles can get blue license plates. There are two types of hybrid vehicles: plug-in hybrids, which require green new energy license plates, and conventional hybrids, which require standard blue license plates. For example, models like the Corolla, Camry Hybrid, and Accord Hybrid cannot get green plates. These are hybrid vehicles and are classified as energy-efficient vehicles in China, not new energy vehicles. Therefore, they cannot benefit from new energy policies during registration and must use blue license plates, the same as conventional fuel vehicles. Plug-in hybrid vehicles differ from conventional hybrids. Plug-in hybrids have larger-capacity batteries that can be charged externally. Conventional hybrids combine fuel (gasoline or diesel) and electric power, using an electric motor as an auxiliary power source to drive the vehicle, representing a complementary technology. The registration process for hybrid vehicles is as follows: Obtain the vehicle certificate: The vehicle certificate is essential for registration. Some car dealerships delay providing this document, which can postpone registration, so it's important to obtain it as soon as possible. Keep the triplicate purchase invoice: The dealership will issue a triplicate purchase invoice. Be sure to retain it. The invoice comes in red, yellow, and blue copies, with the red and yellow copies typically submitted and the yellow copy kept for personal records. Pay the vehicle purchase tax and obtain the tax certificates: After purchasing the vehicle, promptly pay the purchase tax, usually at the local vehicle management office. After payment, you'll receive the tax certificates, which should be kept safe. Prepare necessary documents: Have your original ID card and copies ready (make extra copies for backup). Non-local residents must provide a temporary residence permit and its copy (organizations need the original and a copy of the institutional code certificate). Register and inspect the vehicle at the DMV: With all documents ready, visit the DMV to apply for a license plate. A traffic police officer will inspect the vehicle, checking the VIN, exterior, and warning triangle. Choose a license plate number: After inspection, proceed to the DMV office to select a plate number. Options usually include self-selected or randomly generated numbers. Pay fees and wait for the plate: After selecting a number, pay the fees and wait for the plate, typically ready within three to five working days.
Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) can usually be registered with blue license plates. I have friends who have been driving such cars for years, and their plates are indeed blue. The reason is that China's policy stipulates that green license plates are only issued to pure electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), meaning those that require charging. Conventional hybrids are non-plug-in types, relying on the collaboration of a gasoline engine and an electric motor, and they can operate without charging, so they are classified as regular gasoline vehicles by default and receive blue plates. This has no impact—daily driving remains fuel-efficient and cost-effective, with fuel costs higher than pure EVs but lower than traditional gasoline cars. I've also learned that policies are generally consistent across regions. When purchasing a hybrid, dealers handle the plate registration directly, and blue plates function just like those for conventional cars, with no restrictions on parking or refueling. However, it's important not to confuse hybrid types—only plug-in hybrids qualify for green plates and enjoy tax exemptions, so this distinction matters. In short, choosing a hybrid is a smart move—it's eco-friendly and practical. The blue plate signifies its role in the transitional phase, making it a suitable choice for most households.
